Changes on the way for lodging development applications
Published: 07 May 2021 4:39pm
From 1 June 2021, all development applications within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area (LGA) must be lodged through the NSW Planning Portal, in line with State Government legislation.
The Planning Portal has been developed as the central electronic platform for all councils across NSW to receive applications.
The mandatory change applies to all individuals, organisations or industry professionals, from home builders, to certifiers, project developers and government agencies.
Manager Development Assessment and Building Certification Paul O’Brien said Council has been making the necessary adjustments to its internal processes.
“Two years ago, we moved across to full electronic lodgement in our own system and we already allow the electronic lodgement of applications via the Planning Portal,” Mr O’Brien said.
“All of our regular applicants, such as builders, designers, architects, and HIA are aware of the new process, and a number of them are already using the Planning Portal.
“For the broader community, it means hardcopy applications, even if it’s just for a one-off project such as a new shed or pergola, will no longer be accepted at Council’s Customer Service Centre.”
The NSW Government’s amended requirements apply to the lodgement of Development Applications (DA), Modification to Consent, Construction Certificates (CC) and Complying Development Certificates (CDC).
Applicants will be required to arrange an account through the Planning Portal, which will require an email address.
“We encourage people to talk to their builder or designer and get assistance with lodging their application, as they have the experience with the Planning Portal process,” Mr O’Brien said.
“People who have good quality applications will have the help of their designer or builder, so we are asking those in the industry to help their clients with the new portal.
“The customer kiosks in the Civic Centre, which were closed down last year due to COVID-19, will hopefully reopen soon for use by residents who don’t have access to a computer at home to prepare documentation for their applications.”
For information on how to register for a Planning Portal account, Quick Reference Guides, fact sheets, and links to other resources, visit the NSW Government Planning Portal.
For assistance in account creation, lodgement and other enquiries relating to the portal, email planning.apps@planning.nsw.gov.au or contact Service NSW on 1300 305 695.